Postpartum depression in dads: How to cope naturally?

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 by: Sandeep Godiyal
Tags: postpartum depression, dads, symptoms

(NaturalNews) Postpartum depression is a condition which also affects dads. This fact has been proven by many studies conducted by experts. Paternal postpartum depression has the tendency of affecting not only the sufferers but the health of their children as well. This is the main reason why it is extremely necessary for fathers to instantly recognize if they have the problem within the first year after their partners deliver their baby so these can be immediately treated. Dads are also advised to stick to natural solutions as much as possible to prevent any harmful side effects.

How to detect paternal postpartum depression?

For men to instantly detect postpartum depression, it is important for them to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of the problem. Here are just few of these symptoms:

• Sleeping problems even with extreme exhaustion

• Reduced libido

• Feeling of isolation

• Drinking more than usual

• Lack of interest in the baby

• Lack of motivation and energy

• Sudden loss in weight and appetite

• Excessive worry about hurting the baby

• Loss of pleasure

• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

• Suicidal thoughts

For new dads who experienced most of these symptoms, it is best for them to seek immediate professional help. If they are diagnosed with having the problem, then it is necessary for them to first try coping naturally since it is considered to be more beneficial and safer than having to visit drugstores to buy antidepressants.

Natural ways to deal with paternal postpartum depression

Most of the symptoms of postpartum depression in dads can actually be cured by making a few positive lifestyle changes like performing regular exercises and taking better care of themselves. The following are some of the best tips that are guaranteed to help new dads deal with postpartum depression the natural way:

1. Know the joys of being a dad. For men who are deprived of sleep because of the cries of their baby in the middle of the night, it is essential for them to remember the major reasons why they have decided to have kids. Dads should think about good things related to his baby like seeing them smile, laugh or talk for the first time and hugging them after graduating from college. Knowing the joys of being a father can make the experience even more enjoyable.

2. Connect with others. This is a good way for those who suffer from paternal postpartum depression to get enough support. By building a good support network, a new dad will have greater chances of bringing back the normalcy in his life.

3. Get enough sleep. Inadequate sleep can trigger more severe cases of depression. This is the main reason why fathers are advised to get some sleep whenever they can even with the baby around.

Mentioned above are just a few of the most natural ways to cope with postpartum depression in dads. Note; however, that for more prolonged and severe symptoms of depression, it is best for the sufferer to get immediate professional help.


Sources for the article include

http://www.helpguide.org/mental/postpartum_depression.htm
http://psychcentral.com
http://www.today.com

About the author:
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. He currently writing for insurancetips4u.co.

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